Larry Jackson, Greenville businessman, Bob Jones University trustee, dies at 76
Larry Jackson, 76, founder and former CEO of Jackson, a national brand marketing and motorsports marketing agency headquartered in Greenville, died Monday, March 13.
A 55-year veteran of the communication industry, Jackson's agency provided marketing strategy and services to Ford, BMW, Michelin, BFGoodrich Tires and the Harlem Globetrotters.
In 2010, Larry assumed the role of Chairman of Jackson, with his son, Darrell, succeeding as CEO.
“Dad was my mentor as a father and as a marketer,” said Darrell Jackson, President and CEO of Jackson. “For years, I saw him passionately lead brands beyond their potential while also investing in our associates every day. Today, our “north star” is defined by the way Dad lived his life both professionally and personally—uncommonly creative, uncommonly collaborative and always living out the golden rule.”
Jackson began his marketing career as a public information officer in the Army.
From there, he joined the Ford Motor Company, where he served as supervisor/marketing services in Ford’s Public Relations Department at World Headquarters. He then served as vice president and general manager of Wilding Division of Bell & Howell. Jackson finished his corporate career as senior vice president, Ford Account Group.
In 1980, Jackson and business partner Sam Dawson opened Jackson-Dawson Communications, an agency created to help automotive brands with product launches and dealer training, in 1980. They soon expanded to open a Los Angeles office, and in 1987, Jackson moved south to open an office in Greenville.
Jackson graduated from Bob Jones University. He served on the Board of Trustees of Bob Jones University from 1982–2016 and served as Chairman of the Board of Trustees from 2013–2016. He has also served on numerous academic and professional advisory boards.
Jackson is survived by Betty, his wife of 54 years; children Darrell, Andrea and Eric; plus grandchildren Gage, Ellie, Ali, Clayton, Kaine and Merin.
The funeral service will be held at 12:30 p.m. on Monday, March 20, at Calvary Baptist Church, in Simpsonville followed by a time of visitation. A private burial will be held. Click here for Jackson's full obituary.
This article originally appeared on Greenville News: Larry Jackson, Greenville businessman, Bob Jones trustee, dies
